ORACLES: Lesson 20

Keep short accounts!

There are events in life that are easy to replay over and over again in the mind. If you think of something long enough you can burst into laughter, succumb to tears or find offense all over again. Somehow the images are so vivid it is as if we’re reliving the moment. It is literally an instant replay that locks us into our thoughts. The sad part is too many stay locked behind a world of shame, outrage and offense rather than the life giving memories also etched in the memory bank. For whatever the reason, people migrate towards the pity, pain and offense of life instead of the freedom made possible through Christ.

This is a sad reality because each time you rehearse offense you limit your own possibilities. Cain’s future was sidetracked because he was enslaved to his offense. He heard from God, but he was just unwilling to just let – it – go. Like a festering sore that became infected Cain let the offense fester until he was cut out. The same is true for you. If you let offense grip you, you risk being cut out of God’s ultimate promise. Jesus said, “if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.” (Mark 11:25-26)

An infection affects the entire body while emitting a terrible smell. In the same way, when you harbor offense, your overall wellbeing is affected and the aura around you keeps people at bay. You can’t enjoy relationships and others can’t enjoy you. And, that’s no way to live your life.

You may have been offended, and with good reason, you’re angry. But, don’t give in to resentment and bitterness. Rather, set boundaries where necessary and love God and yourself enough to be authentically you: You may have to cry once or twice, but overall let offense roll off of your back and keep on laughing. You may have to redefine some relationships but keep being friendly and accessible to others. You may feel derision but be obedient to God and forgive by faith. Freely you have received, freely give. Give the grace needed to overlook offense and walk in the freedom that comes through Jesus Christ.

Choose to have your peace everyday, get your rest every night, and live your life to the fullest.